CV Writing Tips

Writing a great CV

Some schools will ask you to send them a CV instead of filling in an application form.Here are some useful tips to help you write that job-winning CV

They will want to know about all your relevant experience. So, if you were a Teaching Assistant before your PGCE, did some work experience in a school, or have any jobs where you have worked with children, then make sure this is all included in your CV.

Set our your CV clearly and make sure it is easy to read.

Use bullet points to highlight areas you want to stand out

Always use a standard font; go for a 'sans serif font' above 11 point

Save it with a clear name.

Personal Statement, Cover Letter and Supporting Statement

The next part for you to think about is your personal statement, which can be asked for in a variety of ways:

As the 'additional information’ section on the application form

A separate personal statement

A separate covering letter

If the school asks for a cover letter, they want to see your personal statement but in the form of a professional letter. There are lots of templates online for professional letters, and it is best to include the letter as an attachment along with your application form in your email to the Headteacher’s PA or school HR department.

Some things to think about in your covering letter or personal statement

Only use two sides of A4 and space out your text to make it easy to read and clear to look at

Have a great structure and stick to it; it should read like a good essay.

Show that you have done your research. What attracted you to the school? What could you contribute? Are there areas in the Ofsted report or school website that you think are interesting?

Show that you have excellent subject knowledge and that you have a passion for passing this on to young people.

You are a real person, not just a set of results with a face. Tell the school what you do outside of the classroom to inject a bit of your personality. And, let them how you could contribute to the wider school community.

What have you done in your placement schools that helped you to stand out?

What did you learn in your first year in the classroom?

If you’re changing career to work as a teacher, make sure you address it. What transferable skills did you learn in your previous that you can now use in the classroom?

Refer to the job specification and personal qualities if the school has provided them; using the same wording as the school can help.

As with your application, get someone in your placement school or on your course to have a look at your personal statement.

Have a read through your application form and anything else that the school asks you for one last time.